"I need a holiday, a very long holiday, and I don't expect I shall return. In fact I mean not to!"
- James Gifford
- Apr 8, 2021
- 44 min read
Updated: Jul 30, 2021
Contents
** Updated 07 April 2021 **
04 January 2021, What An Idiot - Leaving the IOM
I’m Going On An Adventure … Finally! - Arriving in Costa Rica
Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release … Wildsun Rescue Centre - 3 month volunteering
**Updated 22 May 2021**
Life After Wildsun - Leaving Wildsun
Freedom By Name, Freedom by Nature - Buying my motorbike
4 weeks Quarantine? I don’t think so - Going home or travelling
Good Things Come To Those Who Wait in Manuel Antonio - Most biodiverse place we visited
Corcovado Rainforest and the Naked Hostel - Naked hostel in the middle of a jungle
Conquering Cerro Chirripo - I sweat just thinking about it
Coronavirus in the Caribbean Coast - 5 days in Puerto Viejo, turning to 15 days
Sloth Hide-and-Seek - Cahuita was hiding all the sloths
Wildsun Nostalgia - Reuniting with Wildsun
** Updated 04 July 2021 **
The Freedom of Costa Rica - Reuniting with my motorbike
Tortuguero Adventurers - My favourite place in Costa Rica
The Best Feeling EVER - Kayaking a rainforest
Was It You That Stole My Pizza? – Another week from hell
Fortune Favours The Adventurous – All things free in La Fortuna
The Luckiest Person Alive – Rincon de la Vieja Volcano Eruption
What Wouldn’t Have Been - Policeman as a tour guide
Solo Traveler, But Never Alone - Policeman and his family as hosts
** Updated 30 July 2021 **
A Hard Worker, Now An Effective Worker - Volunteering in a self-sustaining house
Running Around Like A Headless Chicken - The most uncomfortable experience of my life
Help Gerson Become Fully Sustainable - Go Fund Gerson
Costa Rica? Completed It Mate - CR concluded on 08 July 2021
Reflection Time. Should I Have Left For Costa Rica? - Exactly what it says on the tin.
04 January 2021, What An Idiot
Waking up excited yet terrified. Like a child on Christmas day: knowing it was the most anticipated day of the year but not knowing whether presents would be under the tree. A one-way ticket to Costa Rica was my Christmas present to me but it ended up being a bag of coal when Bo Jo announced yet another lockdown. However, I persevered and bought another ticket to Costa Rica for today. But given the short notice my only option was to transit through 4 countries, all with ever-changing travel restrictions due to the infamous Covid 19!
I remember instantly grabbing my phone that morning. No new emails = no cancellations (so far), despite the fact I was due to travel to a tier 4 hit Manchester. Tier 4 meant 'Essential Travel' only, but I had no idea what this meant for me. I was going to try anyway. "Nothing ventured nothing gained" a wise friend once said.
All eyes were on me as I squeezed my 15-kilo backpack through the Isle of Man airport door. Facemasks doing very little to cover each person's bemused expression, instead acting more like a hammock to stop their chin from hitting the floor. Looking over at them and interrupting each judgmental thought, which no doubt evolved into messages as they furiously tapped away at their phone:
''Travelling? In the middle of a worldwide pandemic?!''
''Is this guy lost or something?''
''One-way ticket to Quarantine please!''
Or something along those lines... Basically, they thought I was crazy and to be honest, I didn't blame them. I just remember standing at the check-in desk, with Hermione Granger's voice in my head:
I might as well have had 'Unessential Traveller' tattooed on my forehead, as I tentatively made my way to the check-in desk. I fully expected to be turned away… back to a dull life of Xbox and mere daydreams of travelling once again.
Then before I knew it, I was being handed my Logan Air plane ticket! Not one raised eyebrow or question from the people that mattered. Unbelievable. All of December I have replayed this scenario in my head like Marvels Dr Strange, but with absolutely no positive outcome. From this moment I transformed into Frodo Baggins, having been rid of my burden and strolling to security with no cares in the world.
The Check-in desk waved me through like the flagman at the start of a race, with security only being a quick pit stop. I was off and underway on my much-anticipated travelling adventure during a worldwide pandemic. It wasn't that which worried me, I was more concerned about whether the pilot remembered how to fly!
I'm Going On An Adventure … Finally!
Leaving the Isle of Man was like a reverse feeling of how I felt landing on it two and a half years ago. I will never forget that sinking feeling on 15 April 2018, something that never really went away and only got worse the longer Covid overstayed its welcome. Fast forward to the present … I cannot put into words how incredible it felt the moment those plane wheels left the runway tarmac.
I wanted to be on the window seat for the first time in my life. Here, I said goodbye to a snow-covered Snaefell (Isle of Man's only mountain) as altitude and excitement soared in tandem. With the suns rays failing to pierce through the clouds, I knew that this was my final opportunity to look upon home. Something I wouldn't be doing for a LONG time!
My lack of exposure to the worldwide pandemic meant that I expected to see a green haze of Coronavirus over Manchester, instead it too was covered by a blanket of snow. All that was on my mind now was safely touching down and going through the anxiety all over again up to the next check-in desk. Apart from the 15-hour wait in Amsterdam, this was basically how it went for each of my connecting flights.
There was however the last flight to Costa Rica: the final hurdle I was so confident of overcoming I actually started telling people I had left the Isle of Man! (Yes I didn't tell anyone, but only because I genuinely didn't think I'd make it all the way). At the exact moment of overconfidence, my name was called over the tannoy to potentially ruin my dreams of Costa Rica.
''Mr James Geeford''
All eyes were on me once again as 200 curios Costa Rican's watched me 'walk of shame' to the gate. My heart was pounding. I was sweating like an owl in a rifle shop. I've come so far, please don't send me home!
Fortunately, they were just double checking my documents as I was the only European there. All the rest of them seemingly taking the sensible option and staying home in a Covid-infested continent. Maybe I'm not the most sensible person, I'm very impulsive most of the time and go with my gut feeling over anything else. However, this was probably the most informed decision I have ever made. Leaving the place I called home, something that made no sense to many, made complete sense to me. I found a way out; to not be confined by lockdown restrictions but also be safe from a dangerous virus. Within days of landing, I was already fighting my way through jungles, taking in spectacular views and climbing 50ft fig trees in Monteverde.
The real star of the show, however, was volunteering at a Wildlife Rescue Centre. And now here I am writing this days after finishing, in the comfort of a hammock on a hot summers day, reaping the rewards for risk-taking. Pura Vida!
Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release … Wildsun Rescue Centre
I mentioned before I can be a very impulsive person. Signing up for 3 months volunteering at Cabuya's Wildsun Rescue Centre was the perfect example of going with my gut feeling. No mental preparation, literally just me turning up based on one recommendation from a previous volunteer over Facetime. Probably not how the average person would approach this type of commitment, but I wanted to have zero expectations and let each new experience genuinely surprise me. The only heads up I was given was that there'll be plenty to do and lots of sh*t to deal with, literally!
At the last count, there were… 19 McCaws, 17 Howler Monkeys, 9 Opossums, 6 Squirrels, 4 Capuchins, 2 Parrots, 1 Paca and 1 Mexican Dwarf Porcupine … all needing feeding and for people to clean up after them.
The first part was the feeding, starting with making the beloved 'semi mash' (boiled carrots, chayote, sweet potato, green beans and apples). Tray feeding semi mash, fruits, lettuce twice a day to the adult howlers and watching them scurry around the octagon to pick up their favourite foods quickly became a daily ritual, as I learned the basics of animal care.
There was then a few weeks later after 'levelling up' and getting the opportunity to care for the baby howlers (Uma and Kobe). They were tended to each shift and syringe fed a special 'monkey mash' diet. Unlike the (pre-release) adult howlers, the babies also required 'social time' which gave them their opportunity to be exposed to the wild. This involved giving them teddy bear rides and introducing them to leaves, branches, trees, the bamboo jungle gym and other wildlife to assist with their rehabilitation. I don't think I will ever forget strolling around Wildsun, Baby Uma in my arms laying asleep on her doggy teddy bear, rocking her gently to the nighttime melodies that only a Costa Rican jungle can play.
Now for the not so glorious jobs; such as octagon raking and the infamous poopline. Octagon raking was always a challenge in the morning sun, where you had to multitask raking clean the enclosure whilst trying to avoid any unsanitary droppings from above. Anything that hit the floor had to be cleaned, anything that hit you was simply unfortunate, not to mention also earning you a one-way ticket to poopline. Remove your scrub, pink headscarf, wellies and see where you were hit. Then there was the fun task of hanging the item on the washing line and spraying until the faeces falls off. Lovely stuff. You just got used to it though. On really hot days you appreciated doing a bit of poopline for the occasional splashback. Oh, just me that thought this…? Nevermind.
There weren't just animals you had to deal with at Wildsun, there were humans too **exaggerated gasp!**. Filled with volunteers, mixed with interns and sprinkle on a few vets and there you have your family for the next 3 months. Whilst everyone is from different backgrounds, we're all here for one common purpose: to give something back to a world which constantly takes, particularly to animals who are innocent in this world we're destroying.
With all of our moral compasses pointed in the right direction, there was a feeling of unity. 6 am shifts made more bearable at the sight of a full coffee container, volunteers sharing items of food to make the perfect evening meal, offers of bulk buying in shops to save the journey up and down the dreaded Wildsun hill, a shoulder to cry one when you're having 'one of those days' … it was the little things that meant the most.
** This was me about to eat solid food for the first time after a bedridden week of having Gardia. Plate of chips, Heinz ketchup and a flower all prepared by my good friend, German Louis! **
We were there for the animals, but it was honestly the people that made the Wildsun experience that extra special. Yoga deck parties, trips to Montezuma, movie nights, pub quiz's and bonfires galore will forever be remembered.
There was another memory in particular; one morning shift in my first week of Wildsun, around about the end of the honeymoon period. After the coldest shower of my life, fighting for the sink to brush my teeth, 'patiently' waiting for my water to boil for a substitute English tea, standing there cutting semi mash whilst fighting off army ants and mosquitos. Getting to the end of the shift physically and mentally exhausted, made even more challenging with working in the 30-degree heat. Only having a half an hour break before you're at it again. Then getting to the end of your final shift with every intention of doing something productive, but instead, you're sucked into the common area couch needing a prince to wake you up.
I thought to myself: ''How can I keep this up for 13 weeks?!''.
Persevere and it quickly becomes routine. Soon you appreciate waking up early for the morning shift so that the afternoon is free for socializing at a restaurant, Facetiming family members, playing pre-sunset football, enjoying a few Pilsen's with your new best mates, taking a ride on your new motorbike … the list is endless for those who are open-minded enough. The days go so fast with a bit of positivity, the weeks almost faster and then before you know it, you're 13 weeks are up. Actually making it to the end was such an incredible feeling. Knowing that you have overcome working in dry heat, tarantulas in the laundry room, extreme fatigue, intestinal parasites and especially tics in unwanted places! What an achievement! But leaving wasn't all smiles …
All I have wanted to do since my last adventure was leave home and travel freely again. Wildsun unknowingly evolved into a new home for me and never in a million years did I think leaving would be so difficult. I unintentionally fell in love with everything, and now I was suddenly saying goodbye. Not final goodbyes however as I already have plans to travel and meet up with fellow volunteers. Even Uma will be waiting at home for me, not the real one unfortunately, but the below canvassed photo will do just fine!
Hasta luego Wildsun! You will be missed.
*** UPDATE FROM 22 MAY 2021 ***
Life After Wildsun
My 13 weeks of volunteering are up and I’m leaving Wildsun. A place that gave me comfort, companionship and cover from a worldwide pandemic. Time to panic right? Wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited to travel solo in my life!
I used to HATE being on my own. I remember the days when I used to walk down town pretending I was on the phone to someone, just so people wouldn't think I was a loner. I remember once I was so intimidated by people I didn't know, I couldn't even bring myself to ask the bus driver if we were going right (towards my home) or left (away from it). Finally there was a family Caribbean Cruise, where I remember going to 'Kids Club' and choosing to sit my own instead of socialising with 'scary' people I didn't know. Now here I am; flying solo, ready to ask the bus driver for directions and itching to meet like-minded travelers. A completely different mindset in just about the only country in the world that can be visited right now!
Costa Rica is both a paradise and safe-haven for us travellers! It may have been dry season, but rainforests still dripped emerald green as if newly painted. The most peaceful country imaginable, but cries of biodiversity could be heard in every direction. Also untouched by herds of tourists and the full scale of Covid 19, Costa Rica was begging to be explored in the safest way possible. I couldn’t wait to go full throttle, fulfilling long-awaited ambitions and creating precious new memories.
Still no mortgage to pay, job to go back to, girlfriend to consider, child to nurture, pet to care for etc. A combination of all of these would contribute to a much-desired lifestyle, but that’s probably in the next chapter of a book titled ''Time To Settle Down''. Right now, I’m still working on ‘’When In Doubt, Just Travel’’. I’m currently on the page where I'm relishing a life of no responsibilities, no worries and taking full advantage of a recently bought motorbike.
Freedom By Name, Freedom By Nature
Me on a motorbike might come as a surprise for most of you. Honestly, it’s still a surprise to me now. I initially wanted to buy a Quad, but was put off by the price and having to pay it all in cash! In the end I went for something 8 times cheaper (yes, 8 times!) and haven’t looked back.
Looking back now, it was clear that Mr Impulsive was in full swing again. I have never even ridden a scooter in my life, why did I think it was a good idea to buy a manual bike, known for unexpected wheelies when experimenting with the throttle? I had to learn how to ride the bike from scratch, and where better to learn than the unpaved roads of Cabuya?? With more potholes than wildlife, it was always going to be a challenge. Not just for me but for my good friend German Eric who spent time putting together a bike assault course, consisting of branches and palm leaves for me to manoeuvre around. Time spent practising gear changes, hill starts and just general ride-arounds will live long in the memory. Probably for the locals too who were kept entertained at my expense!
Training complete it was time for me to go solo. Then have someone on the back. Then have someone on the back at night. The last one was seemingly too much to handle, which ended in me and my (still) friend Loic face down in a ditch. I have since recovered from the scratches and minor bruises and decided to use this as the most important lesson of all. Take it easy and don’t get too confident!
Since then I have conquered Costa Rica's motorways, mountain roads and winding off the beaten track paths. Such a surreal experience riding around the country on my motorbike. One I wouldn’t change for anything. Eric would be so proud!
4 Weeks Quarantine? I Don’t Think So
In the time it would have taken me to complete quarantine in both the UK and the Isle of Man, I went on a little adventure down the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Riding over 300 miles, visiting over 10 places, exploring 4 National Parks and taking full advantage of the last remains of ‘dry season’.
The unimaginable beauty of Uvita, the unprecedented chaos of San Isidro and the unscheduled flat tyre in the middle of nowhere were certainly worth writing about.
However .. it was undoubtedly the wildlife of Manuel Antonio, the rainforests of Corcovado and the heights of Cerro Chirripo that get priority.
Good Things Come To Those Who Wait in Manuel Antonio
It may have taken 3 days and 200 kilometres, but riding motorways edged by tropical rainforest and Costa Rica's unique biodiversity was too much fun to care. Even if the laces of my backpack were whipping me like a relentless horse-jockey, the pain was worth every moment of complete freedom all the way down to Manuel Antonio, and the beginning of my travelling adventure.
It wasn’t just my adventure, but ours instead. Fellow Wildsun volunteers German Louis and American Sebastian joined me at the cheap and cheerful Blue Morph Hostel. Probably one of the few positives to come from a worldwide pandemic .. a hostel that would usually accommodate 20 only had to deal with 3 of us. Essentially it was our house for the next few days, where we'd take full advantage of cooking in our OWN kitchen, spending quality time with our new dog, romantically ligting some candles and appreciating shelter from the first signs of rainy season.
Manuel Antonio is best known for its National Park of the same name which is home to one of the most biodiverse areas of the country. Despite some of the locals trying to overcharge you for parking, it’s a pretty chill place. A complete change of lifestyle for us volunteer-veterans, who now get the opportunity to fully appreciate Costa Rica's wildlife without having to feed or clean up after them!
We ended up hiring a guide having conceded that it was too difficult to spot the animals ourselves. Good thing too! Even with the aid of a telescope and three months volunteering under our belt, it would have been near-impossible for us to pick these out …
We spent the afternoon hiking around the park, taking in the abundance of wildlife and climbing up to all the majestic views on offer. It was seemingly too much to handle too as the park had closed and yet here we were, resting at one of the highest points with no intention of hurrying back. So we slowlllyyyy made our way to the exit in a park clear of tourists, but still alive with nature! Meaning that we were fortunate enough to witness welcome Wildsun flashbacks of howlers and capuchins, and even squirrel monkeys flying above our heads and through the canopies. I never took any pictures, but at least I was useful for something …
Corcovado Rainforest and the Naked Hostel
Sounds like an erotic Roald Dhal novel. Whilst James did not feel comfortable showing his Giant Peach, he felt like Charlie in the Chocolate factory instead, immersing himself in yet another completely unique and unimaginable experience.
Continuing down the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, we found a rainforest as big as the Isle of Man. Whilst there were no wallabies on show, Corcovado put on a performance of a lifetime with its abundance of endemic species in the most biodiverse rainforest in the world. We were lucky enough to stay in the middle of the jungle, but just outside the border of Corcovado National Park to avoid the pesky daily $30 entrance fee!
As you can imagine, a near-impenetrable rainforest meant that there was no entry for my motorbike or our 4x4 jeep. We could barely squeeze our backpacks and three days worth of food through! Made even more difficult with a strenuous 30-minute hike up and down winding paths to get to our hostel. Cerro Chirripo was undoubtedly the most physically demanding challenge of my life (more on that later), but this wasn’t that far behind. So bad that I nearly sacrificed my beloved tuna, tomato sauce and pasta for a lighter load. Also why I decided to journey with a full backpack is beyond me...
Fortunately, this led to the most remote and unique hostel imaginable. Reminiscent of when I stayed the worlds highest treehouse in Laos - surrounded by jungle and animals noises in every direction - but instead this was ground-based with no protection from any lurking predators. Like a jungle gym in the middle of a jungle.
Thankfully the video doesn’t show any bare-backsides, but this was about the only time people were fully clothed. I don’t think I’ll ever forget lying peacefully on my hammock one second, then opening my eyes to someone’s fruit and veg hanging at eye level, feeling like I was watching one of those 3D movies as I ducked-and-dodged each swing-and-a-miss. Then casually engaging them in conversation as if everything was normal. It’s amazing how quickly abnormal turns to everyday life when travelling!
It wasn’t just the ‘dodgeball’ that kept me entertained in Corcovado, but also the many hiking trails leading through my first experience of primary rainforest. There have been many tales of people getting lost for days in Corcovado, but no amount of bad news would stop us on going on our own little adventure. We began on the path but soon decided to take a detour; fighting our way through vines in the hope of finding the ‘Bolita Sloth’. All we ended up finding was a never-ending gorge which only narrowed the deeper we went. Finally, after an hour of hurdling tree trunks and wading through knee-deep rockpools, did we end up somewhere semi-civilised: someone's back garden.
Fortunately, they weren't that angry and had the courtesy to point us in the right direction, which led us out of the seemingly never-ending gorge, and into a more than welcoming oasis pool!
Thankfully we made our way back unscathed and just before the heavens opened. However, this would contribute to yet another completely new experience.
One of my favourite apps on my iPhone is called ‘Calm’, something that puts me in a complete state of relaxation and helps to manage anxiety. It’s especially useful in times when you’ve just been told your flight off the Isle of Man has been cancelled; ruining all your long-awaited travelling plans and hope’s for a better 2021! It's okay, an ambient soundscape will help diffuse any upset. I hit shuffle and couldn’t believe my bad luck: ‘Costa Rica Rainforest'. Really?!
Maybe it wasn’t bad luck, maybe it was a sign telling me not to give up. I could have sat there and felt sorry for myself, but instead I booked another flight the next morning. Little did I know that 5 months later I’d be in listening to the authentic sounds of a Costa Rican Rainforest. Listening to the cries of unique wildlife undisturbed by a background melody of torrential rain is one thing, but actually experiencing it for real was unimaginable. It was impossible to feel under the weather here.
Whilst leaving our hostel was made a lot easier with a lighter load, there was the added weight of guilt having left somewhere so serene so soon. However, I still have a whole country to explore, and next ... a mountain to climb!
Conquering Cerro Chirripo
With the naked hostel now in the ‘rear view’ of my mirror, it was time to head back up the coast and up to Central America's tallest mountain. Easy as that. Or so I thought …
First, there was the flat tyre in the middle of nowhere … randomly next to an abandoned Boeing 727. The departures board didn’t say anything about flights to Cerro Chirripo, so I guess I was stuck here. Fortunately, there was a helpful check-in desk. Not for a flight, but instead for the boutique hotel which WAS the abandoned plane. They were very helpful and called a taxi for me and my bike, which took us to the nearest mechanic.
A flat tyre would usually signal the end of an already deflating day, but the storm clouds ahead told me that the worst was yet to come. Fighting my way through Costa Rica's torrential rain en route to Cerro Chirripo proved an early uphill battle. However, it was nowhere near as bad as trying to find a hotel that would take a soaking wet traveller who could barely speak a word of Spanish! I had no choice:
‘’Donde esta la nearest hostel, por favor?’’
Unsurprisingly, this was met with looks of confusion. In the case of a security guard, he actually called the police on me as I tried to slalom past him and take temporary refuge in a hospital. Desperate times call for desperate measures, so I ended up at a hotel where they quoted 3x the price of the average hostel. I tried to play the stupid, English traveller with limited money card, but she saw right through my act the same way she could see through my sodden white vest top. Obviously not interested with my entry in the wet t-shirt competition, she tried to turn me away with the only English she knew (inappropriate language for this blog, sorry!). Which was the point I eventually got the message, gave up and agreed to the $31 charge. At least there was the hottest shower I’ve had in Costa Rica, coupled with the comforting thought that tomorrow could only get better!
I arrived high and dry at my Cerro Chirripo hostel early afternoon the next day. I prepared all my food, filled up my water bottles and tightened up my Nike pumps well in advance, but not before checking in with my Go Pro. I thought it would be a good idea to document the experience with my first ever vlog series. I was very happy with the outcome.
This just about captures my whole Cerro Chirripo experience and every raw bit of emotion in climbing 3820 metres (in about 25 videos or so) …. Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OB-GiQP3YPI&list=PL4P9FrI7Sa8rq9QgbErDA5xcXrksXOyA1 (right click the link and open in a new tab - too big to include on Blog)
** Touched on in 'My Cerro Chirripo Experience' vlog. This was the moment I realised I still had to hike another 15 km to the exit. Can you imagine the look I gave Raphael when he asked me to go on another hike? "Jog on mate!" **
Coronavirus In The Caribbean Coast
I’ve learned certain things about myself since Cerro Chirripo. For example, my determination is something that I am most proud of and is the main driver for my successes in life. This is the best version of me and I wouldn’t change it for anything, but this comes at a cost sometimes.
I’m not talking about the fact I couldn’t walk properly for the following days, but the fact I was so mentally exhausted and emotionally frustrated after it’s almost like it wasn’t worth it. Mentally exhausted because my brain was constantly in a battle with my body, willing it to go on and not stop until I made it to the top. Emotionally frustrated because I am a very emotional person who doesn’t feel comfortable with releasing ALL of these emotions in front of people, especially at the summit of a mountain where everyone is so happy. A few minutes of upset barely scratches the surface. I need to release to the point where it feels like my head is going to explode.
My fatigue and anxiety was crazy high for about a week after. The only time I have been completely relaxed is the two nights I had a few drinks. I may have been under the influence, but I’ll never forget receiving the most heartwarming compliment of my life. Something that hit so deep it gets me emotional just thinking about it. Whilst I can't remember the exact words, he was complimenting how open, genuine and approachable I was, the type of personality that people warm to and can trust. He recited my core values as if they were tattooed on me.
Just as things were looking on the up, it quickly turned to the most challenging week of travelling...
I had to leave my favourite hostel the next day because it was fully booked. So I instead went for a cheaper hostel in the area and got randomly ill the first day. It was well documented that some hostels in Puerto Viejo were rife with Covid, so I couldn’t help but assume the worst. Given that it was sneezes and a blocked nose I decided to have a socially distanced day on my own and take a rented bike down to Manzanillo National Park. Long story short, after locking my bike and going about my day as normal, the key fell off the chain that was around my neck. I was then made to cover the costs for ‘losing’ the key, which I wasn’t too happy about and - without screaming the place down - made my feelings known. I paid the fine and made it seem that everything was forgiven, but I still felt it was very unjust.
Skip forward to my next hostel (Secret Garden) in Cahuita, where my symptoms worsened to the point I went for a test at the ever-lively Hone Creek Covid Centre … After spending the day there - hoping for a negative test and the feeling of normality again - I went back to the hostel probably the worst I felt since I left for travelling. That was until Louis randomly called me for a facetime at 21:30 and cheered me up in seconds, so I went to the common area and the only place the wifi works. Ten minutes into the call the French owner abruptly interrupts, accuses me of being disrespectful to a sleeping guest who has gone to bed early and tells me to end the call. I end the call - after a bit of backlash admittedly – and then go to bed, but again feeling this was completely unjustified.
In bed, I ‘impulsively’ decide to write a scathing review about him on booking.com. He confronts me the next morning asking why I ‘insulted’ him online, then proceeds to call me ‘stupid, uneducated and disrespectful’ before kicking me out of the hostel. Oops. Probably should have left the review until after I left.
You don’t have to tell me it was stupid leaving a review in the middle of a stay, I know it was and yes I regret it. But then again, it was an honest review and made me feel better calmly expressing my frustrations. Here was the review for a fuller picture:
This is not the first time I have got in trouble for retaliating and I am not proud to say it won't be the last. People will ask why I react. I honestly try not to, but when I don’t it just carries to the next instance, I keep doing this until I can't hold it in anymore. I can't stand self-righteous people who think they have superiority over you and in turn can treat you how they like. There are too many people in this world that try to take advantage and sometimes you have to stand up for yourself.
What do I do next time? Keep turning a blind eye and accepting that sh!t happens? Or do I try and confront each matter defiantly but keeping a calm head at the same time?? I have tried both but neither work for me. Maybe picking your battles is best, but knowing which one to pick is also a headscratcher. Answers on a postcard, please!
Maybe it was just a bad week and I know I get easily frustrated when I’m not feeling well, also thinking you have Coronavirus is an added dampener. It got to the point I even started writing about having Corona to keep me occupied …
Yep, I got it.
After days of blocked noses, a few coughs and sneezes, and the occasional sore throat – basically having a glorified cold - I was unsurprisingly told that I had coronavirus on 06 May 2021.
As hard as them lonely days were leading up to the result, at least they were justified. Telling people trying to engage you in conversation that you have symptoms has the same effect as saying ‘’I’m a mass murderer’’, staying clear of you as if you were ‘it’ in a game of tag. This must be how a Leper felt in the olden days. Fortunately for me, however, I wasn’t shunned to Spinalonga. Instead, I had free reign to choose against $10 hostels and to pick from a list of the most luxurious accommodations in Puerto Viejo, all thanks to my all-important travel insurance. ‘’
HOWEVER, IT TURNS OUT I DIDN’T HAVE CORONAVIRUS! Instead, it was some other virus going around Puerto Viejo nowhere near on the scale of a worldwide disease. The feeling of relief reminiscent of the frisson of joy when seeing your dog after a long day at work. I was free again. Free to continue where I left off having the best time on the Caribbean coast. Thankfully, the following week was probably the best I’ve so far …
Sloth Hide-and-Seek
The weather the last few days on the Carribbean Coast had seemingly mirrored my mood in isolation: cloudy with the occasional thunder and lightning.
On being told that I was clear of Corona, however, the sun shone brighter than my newfound freedom, illuminating my path as I skipped back to Puerto Viejo. A place so laid back, if it were a person it would claim the title of Limbo World Champion (not that it would ever summon the enthusiasm to leave its hammock). It was like living amongst a Rastafarian religion, where the reggae-soaked atmosphere coupled with Caribbean infused food led to the most desired lifestyle imaginable. Not even the colourful, goofy bicycles with no brakes could put a stopper to each contended smile, as I rode through and admired the long, flat stretches of road edged by forest and its exotic inhabitants.
Every journey on the Caribbean Coast conjures up a unique experience. However, whether it's exploring the National Parks or kayaking it's rivers, there will always be an abundance of wildlife to marvel at. Sloths, howler monkeys, capuchins, exotic birds, frogs, snakes you name it. In fact, there was one occasion in Cahuita where a family of howler monkeys were sitting there high up on a branch and marvelled back at us, staring in disbelief at their open-mouthed and hairless predecessors. I remember trying to compose myself after each occasional distant cry from a baby howler monkey, giving me more than welcome flashbacks of Uma at Wildsun. On the whole, it was truly incredible to witness howler monkey families thriving in the wild.
The only thing that was on par with admiring the howler families was actually managing to spot sloths that laze about all day and don’t move a muscle. Honestly, never play hide-and-seek with a sloth. Play it with monkeys and you will win every time, just listen for a rustle in the bushes or their unmistakable and uncompromising howling. The only chance you have of hearing a sloth, however, is listening out for its yawn, other than that your ears are useless. You need to scour each tree in the hope of finding something fluffy and immovable high up on a branch. It may have taken two attempts, but miraculously we managed to spot one in Cahuita, hanging lazily from a tree and rocking gently with the ocean breeze.
Little did this sloth know, it had inspired my activity level for my last few days in Puerto Viejo - where I again relished in a life of not having to be anywhere or do anything productive. I simply lay in a hammock all day taking in the best weather of Costa Rica, listening to music, facetiming friends and making sure I only moved for food.
This is the place I gladly called home for two weeks. After Cerro Chirripo and the week from hell, this is exactly what the doctor ordered!
Wildsun Nostalgia
Why did I leave Puerto Viejo to go back to a covid-restricted and energy-sapping San Jose? Oh yes, to be reunited with friends of old in the place I called home for three months. Thankfully, San Jose was just a pitstop as I picked up Eric who had just flew back from Germany.
Travelling from one side of the country to the other wasn’t easy, especially when you're forced to wear a child’s spiderman mask for the entirety of the journey. Despite the long ride and the relentless rubbing behind the ears, each second towards Cabuya was undoubtedly worth it. Flashbacks of taking the exact same bus/boat as 5 months ago and the feeling of pride knowing how much you have achieved since then, is nothing short of incredible.
Fortunately, the nostalgia continued to hit harder than a bottle of Cacique. A combination of them both – along with reuniting with long lost friends – contributed to the happiest 3 days and nights of Costa Rica...
*** Note to Wildsun, the sign was already broken before I picked it up ***
*** UPDATED 04 JULY 2021 ***
The 'Freedom' of Costa Rica
Having successfully reunited with long lost friends and my Puma sliders, it was time for one last trip before renewing my Costa Rican Visa. A much-anticipated trip to Tortuguero on the Caribbean Coast!
Miguelito (my motorbike) had been neglected for almost a month while his selfish owner opted instead for bus transportation. Trying my best to explain to a sulking motorbike that avoiding pot-hole laden roads was for his own good - as it sits there avoiding eye contact like a dog with a cone of shame on his head. The sulk seamlessly evolved into a tantrum, to the point where he refused to start. All he needed was a little treat and soon enough his battery was recharged; ready for yet another unique adventure!
It's as if the excessive drinking and laziness made me forget how incredible going full throttle around this majestic country was. Galloping down motorways on a noble steed, carving through rainforests like a wedding cake, overtaking lorries struggling uphill whilst screaming …
On a motorbike you're free to go anywhere you want at any time. You're even free to get stuck on 'roads' reminiscent of Groudle Glen Plantation back home, or go through knee-deep puddles to see if your motorbike turns into Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang. It's the same adventure, but the experience is always the most authentic and unique imaginable. Absolute freedom on my Freedom.
Tortuguero Adventurers
Arriving soaking wet at La Pavona and boarding the ferry, seemingly smuggling water in my pockets like a greedy child with a pick-n-mix. However, just like the boat, my spirits too were unsinkable as we slalomed effortlessly down Rio Tortuguero.
Tortuguero is on everyone's travelling itinerary for all who visit Costa Rica! The main drawcard is its showing of Sea Turtles, in particular, the babies taking their first steps to the sea during hatching season. I was both unfortunate and fortunate not to be visiting during hatching season. The absence of the main drawcard meant an absence of tourists, that coupled with a global pandemic resulted in having the National Park all to myself. Well not quite. I was pleasantly surprised to bump into Two Wildsun Volunteers (Adam and Robin) who were as enthusiastic about their time at Wildsun as they were about exotic animals.
The many Wildsun stories were put on hold for a 6am silence in our Canoe. Fortunately, we weren't the only ones up bright and early, with the Tortuguero sun seemingly exciting humans and animals out of bed that morning! Functioning at this hour would be impossible back home, but here it came as natural as the untouched surrounding scenery. Scrutinizing the rainforest like an intense game of eye-spy; our eyes fixated to each rustle in the rainforest and ripple in the river. With this tactic in play, we witnessed an abundance of biodiversity. Ranging from capuchins to caymans, howlers to hummingbirds and even a sloth who had seemingly hit the snooze button.
However, it wasn't the showcase of animals that made this one of my favourite ever excursions, but instead the serenity of an early morning rainforest. Not even the relentless screams of Howler Monkeys could ruin the ambience…
I have opted against excursions throughout all of Costa Rica, with all of them looking so inviting up until the point you see the price. This however was money well spent having also paid the daily entrance fee. Meaning that when we returned in our canoe we didn't hesitate in hopping in a Kayak and exploring again.
The Best Feeling EVER
If you have read any of my previous blog posts you would have noticed that all my destinations share a common love for wild places, secluded beauty, active pursuits and out-of-the-ordinary experiences. This was a combination of them all as we left the canoe trail behind and set off to explore some of the rainforests most secret and awe-inspiring spots.
However, even in the early stages, we began to feel the effects of paddling against breakwater current, especially in blistering Costa Rican sun! We thought the worst of it was over having made our way to the first river and into the shade, but here we had to fight our way through an even stronger current. The uphill battle was countered with an encouraging thought; that each paddle brings us further, closer and deeper into the heart of Tortuguero rainforest. We fought until we could fight no more. So we simply let go, becoming one with nature and the flow of the river.
We wouldn't be drifting all the way back to the start, however, first we had some undisturbed waters to travel through.
It was technically still morning, but morning felt like evening given the early start, as we paddled against fatigue and continued onto the next river. If only these kayaks were solar-powered! Whilst the kayak couldn't feel the intense power of the sun, we certainly could as my factor 30 sun-cream worked tirelessly to fight off its rays. Robin and Adam chose against this trusted ally, which resulted in an early defeat and sunburn that could rival the Human Torch. So I went on a solo charge, and as far upstream as possible…
With only one option after the dead end, I turned around and drifted lazily down stream again. My attention also drifting away from the rustling bushes and distant cries of animals. Instead, I was more focused on how incredible today had been and the subsequent feeling. Whilst I haven't written about it in my blog, today was up there with bike riding down Death Road in Bolivia. The relentless excitement, unparalleled adrenaline, and the fact that at that moment, there were no worries or concerns about anything whatsoever. Truly the most joy I had felt in a Covid-infested world.
Was It You That Stole My Pizza?
Why must San Jose be at the center of everything? Whilst it's the best place in Costa Rica to watch Premier League football, it's also got - what I don't like to call - capital city disease … too loud, too big, too many people, too much traffic and too many buildings. I know I'm probably describing every major city in the world right now, but no matter how many times I've tried, I just can't get used to it! San Jose is rife with capital city disease, not to mention that other virus everyone keeps talking about.
Thank God for TripOn Open House Hostel. I don't know where I'd be without your hospitality. Probably still face down on the busiest road in San Jose, given that I fell off my motorbike AGAIN. Whilst I was limited in options, trying to cross wet train tracks in rush hour traffic probably wasn't the brightest idea. I just remember sliding across 2 lanes of traffic whilst cars avoided hitting me like the Banana Peel on Mario Kart. Unfortunately that would signal game over for my motorbike, at least until I got it fixed!
I was told I was part of the TripOn family many times by Juan Carlos, especially after a few beers! But the moment I knew I was part of the family was when I was telling the dog off for barking. There was an funny reflection period that followed; knowing - at that very moment - I had hit full comfortability and found another home away from home.
My next priority was crossing the Nicaragua border to renew my Visa in Costa Rica. Probably not a story fit for a travel blog. All you need to know is we miraculously made it there and back without being arrested.
Back to the hell-hole that is San Jose. To be honest, I really don't like being negative in my blog, but whilst I hold back on telling full stories, I try to include every single part of my Costa Rican experience - good or bad. This is the one where the mechanic didn't fix my bike properly, and instead put all of his energy into stealing 20,000 Colones (25 Pounds) and swiping away my Fair FX debit card. The day then only got worse when I got back to Trip On to find someone had stolen my full pizza!!
The week from hell was finally over! However, you always see the bright side when you're no longer in the heat of the moment. One of my good friends now came up to me two weeks after said incident, telling me that I completely skipped the travelling formalities with him ("Hey, where you from? How long you been in Costa Rica?" Etc …). Instead I apparently went for the more abrupt conversation starter of:
''Was it you that stole my pizza?!''
Fortune Favours The Adventurous - La Fortuna
If you couldn't tell, I think that San Jose left a lot to be desired. Even after Bob the Builder's trip to Poas Volcano.
La Fortuna was next on my spontaneous itinerary. By the end of the trip, I learned that La Fortuna was aptly named for 3 reasons:
1. Here I found out I had been riding Miguelito (very) illegally for 5 months, without even a sniff from the infamously relentless Police Transito (Transit Police).
2. We managed to visit a secret waterfall and hike up Costa Rica's most dangerous extinct Volcano – both completely free (of money or harm).
3. I met some of the most incredible people here … and Georgie with her shocking English banter.
The ride to La Fortuna was my favourite journey to date. Galloping 200km North on Costa Rica's rigid Motorways, with Miguelito showing me yet again the true meaning of haste:
Driving past an abundance of Police cars with no cares in the world and an oversized backpack that screamed 'I'M NOT FROM HERE, SO I PROBABLY DON'T KNOW THE RULES'. Despite my honest intentions, it turns out I really didn't know the rules and the motorbike I loved so much would have been taken away from me without a moment's hesitation.
Fortunately there are good people in this world, especially the Manager of La Choza Inn Hostel (Romel) who actually took the time to sit me down and help me sort everything. He's like everyone's big brother of Costa Rica and the 'You know where to find me if you ever need help' type of person. It turns out he's very easy to find too, conveniently working at the base of Arenal - Costa Rica's largest Volcano. What a sight this was to wake up to every morning!
He wasn't the only person sent from God at La Choza Inn, with the owners son (Bryan) offering FREE alternatives to La Fortuna's extortionately expensive excursions. For Arenal, I'd rather throw the $50 entrance fee into the volcano than into the hands of a guide that will only take us HALF WAY up! Fortunately the sister volcano right next to it (Cerro Chato) was ready and waiting for us. The only difference was instead of molten lava, there would be a rainwater filling greener than a Costa Rican rainforest.
However, it wasn't as easy as it sounds, especially with the absence of Bryan who decided against a third hike up Cerro Chato that week! We were our own guide that early morning, taking more than a few wrong turns as we hurdled barbed wire fences and fought our way through Costa Rican jungle to reunite with the long-lost path. It was a good job we had a 10-minute stretching session beforehand, where we'd be without them pelvic rotations we'll never know! Probably still frozen in fear at the venomous snake that Georgie was too oblivious to warn us about.
This was a big outdoor experience that rewards you with a unique feeling of appreciation, that only comes after some good old-fashioned hard work. And trundling uphill (or upvolcano) was certainly hard work, even with the help of all four filth covered limbs as we eventually reached the summit.
Our limbs - though filthy, weak and weary - still had enough energy to climb down into the crater and take advantage of being somewhere so remote. I mean, this is a green lagoon inside an extinct volcano. I wasn't going to come all this way just to take a generic panorama was I?
Now here's the generic panorama (one I asked everyone to stay quiet for lol) ...
Returning to the base of the volcano was somewhat more challenging. First, there was each carefully considered step down to avoid falling to our impending doom (it was an illegal hike for a reason), all whilst trying not to be distracted by a mesmerizing view of La Fortuna ahead. The main difficulty however, was reaching the base and convincing 3 security guards that we didn't hike the volcano and therefore didn't have to pay a baffling $10. They had a better chance of charging us for destruction of property after digging our heels in for so long. Persistence was the only thing that paid off in the end as we ticked off Cerro Chato Volcano from our Costa Rican bucket list.
The Luckiest Person Alive – Rincon de la Vieja
Fortune favours the adventurous yet again. Despite its mountainous peaks and waterfalls way up in the clouds, most travellers completely overlook Rincon de la Vieja as a tourist destination. Maybe because it's off the tourist trail, or maybe because it's home to one of Costa Rica's most active Volcanoes? I don't know. What I do know is that I once saw Rincon de la Vieja Volcano reflecting the last rays of a setting sun, and that was plenty of reason for me to return and hike the National Park.
It's well documented in Costa Rica that if there's any hint of an eruption they close its entire National Park without a moment's hesitation. So this was more than safe to hike right? Wrong. Little did I know, I was hiking a ticking time bomb. On 28 June 2021 - 10 days after a carefree 13km hike – this happened.
Looking back now, it's as if a higher power was trying to turn me away. First, I ran out of petrol and luckily made it to the gas station thanks to my emergency petrol. Second, Maps.me uncharacteristically led me down 10km of dangerous, unpaved road. Third, there was a rampaging river-crossing as a final hurdle - one I would have turned back from if it wasn't for the advice of a local family!
What's more dangerous? Hiking a volcano 10 days off going boom or living in a Covid invested continent? I know what's more fun. To put it in perspective, I wouldn't have died because this happened two hours before the park's opening. HOWEVER, it would have been much worse if this happened when I was there, because I would have missed out on all the following unforgettable memories.
What Wouldn't Have Been
After overcoming all the obstacles, I found myself watching yet another incredible Rincon de la Vieja Sunset. The setting sun of Rincon de la Vieja was this time overshadowed by the start of another incredible experience; the union of two Tico's (Antonio and Jader) and one traveller from the Isle of Man. Little did I know that one of these Tico's was, in fact, a Police Officer.
If you've read my Costa Rica blog, you'll know that I've had my fingers crossed for 6 months trying to avoid this situation. Unsurprisingly, it didn't take long for him to start interrogating me. Starting with questions like 'Who are you? Where are you from?', all asked with a smile on his face as if he was the friendliest police officer in Costa Rica. I've heard all about your kind mate, you're getting nothing from me! Then he looked down to my motorbike and asked if I had a license. Here we go, good-cop routine finished, make way for the bad cop. Or so I thought …
The good cop routine quickly resurfaced and – to my surprise – continued all evening. Turns out he was just a genuine guy watching a sunset with his friend, wanting to make me feel as welcome as possible in the meantime. He even offered to be my tour guide for all the unmissable places of Rincon de la Vieja.
** Okay, whilst the above is not a lie, it's certainly not a complete reflection of the night. I spontaneously recorded a 3am video of the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the the truth. Message me and I will send you a link to it. Ps. It's not for Mum's, Mum! **
Somehow unscathed from last nights events, I rode laughing all the way to the National Park early the next morning. With my Nike pumps taking a deserved rest from Cerro Chirripo, I put my new hiking boots to good use with a 13km stomp to Rincon's most famous waterfalls.
The main event, however, was the following day at Rincon de la Vieja's best-kept secret. Fortunately, Mr Police Officer (Antonio) knew all about it, and better yet, also knew the path to avoid paying the entrance fee. Who am I to deny an Officer of the law? Especially when he's generously holding up barbed wire fences for me to crawl under. I helped repay his generosity with a few English lessons ...
Laughter helped fuel another long Rincon hike, but proved also a distraction as we unknowingly submerged ourselves into hip-deep swamps and an impassable waterfall. Soon enough we were reunited with the path, but it wasn't long before I thought we hit another dead end. Turns out, this was no dead end, but instead, the ENTRANCE to our final destination. Hold on … No one said anything about swimming?!
We went from holding our breath so no one could hear us, holding our breath to avoid drowning and now holding our breath in amazement. Rincon de la Vieja's secret waterfall hidden inside 4 walls.
This was probably enough excitement for any given day, but Antonio didn't stop there with the tour. Next we met up again with Jader and off we went to chill at Liberia Canyon. The chilling didn't really last long the moment we found out about cliff jumping …
Solo Traveler, But Never Alone
The final stop of that day was the most wholesome of all. It happened to be Fathers day in Costa Rica so I was invited to meet the whole family, including 92-year-old Great Grandfather Pedro and 3 years old (pain in the backside) Marco. Within minutes of being there, (Grandmother) Maria was already bossing me around to clean the floor for tonights party!
Preparation was over and time for a relaxing game of Uno with 8-year-old Mariangel, or it would have been if it wasn't for Marco. I have never gotten to "uno" so fast in my life, it's as if some little sh!t was taking my cards from me and throwing them around the room. Mariangel had the patience of a saint. Not the same for me 20 years ago however, as I ran to Mum each time my 3-year-old brother sneakily turned off my Playstation 1. ** Eventually I learned the trick was to give him a controller to make him think he was playing too, so I had the last laugh bro! HA! **
For the evening meal, I was lucky enough to be in the middle of 4 generations of Costa Rican family. I almost ruined this authentic experience by attempting to involve myself in a Spanish conversation. Mariangel was forced to cover her ears as I innocently said "Cuelo" (the Spanish word for ass) instead of the Spanish word for 'colour'. Oops! Fortunately, everyone laughed, but for the rest of the night I was consequently, yet lovingly, named "El Gringo".
I certainly felt the love the next day, as just before I was about to leave Maria asked me to come into the kitchen. She took my hands and said a prayer for me. As I opened my eyes I noticed she was in floods of tears. I tried to console her and ask what was wrong but my Spanish truly is terrible! The next day, I asked Antonio why his mother was so upset. He explained that she doesn't really understand the concept of travelling, thinking I was lost with no home to go to, so she wanted to say a prayer to help keep me safe.
I messaged her straight away saying thank you for her genuine kindness. Also, I put her mind at rest, explaining that I had a home for the next two weeks before I finally LEAVE Costa Rica.
** UPDATED 30 JULY 2021 **
A Hard Worker, Now An Effective Worker
As a young teenager, I used to play football down the park every Saturday afternoon. I remember someone said to me once ‘’James, it’s just football at the park. Why do you try so hard?’’. I turned around to him and said it was for fitness reasons - as if I wasn’t fit enough back then! The truth is I didn’t know why either. It’s only as I’ve gotten older, I’ve started to understand.
Basically I'm not ‘naturally’ good at anything. I feel like I have to try harder than the average person just to succeed at something simple. Success, however, is a matter of opinion and given that I always set high expectations for myself, I rarely succeed in the way I want to. This is exactly why I felt I could have done more in my previous volunteering at Wildsun.
I had built some incredibly strong relationships with people at Wildsun and I know fellow volunteers were sad to see me go, but only as a good friend and not an effective worker. Maybe my expectations were too high in being someone who’s never even owned a pet before, never mind looked after wild animals for 13 weeks! However, I wanted another volunteering opportunity to prove to myself that I can make a tangible difference. Roll on Valle Azul ...
Running Around Like A Headless Chicken
Saying a final goodbye to La Fortuna in my final 2 weeks of Costa Rica, but it was hello to new challenges ahead - ending my Costa Rica adventure just as I started it! Again, no mental preparation whatsoever. I just hopped on my motorbike and set off with no cares in the world – which lasted for about 2 minutes before my battery died and I had to roll my way to a mechanic.
After a quick lesson in kickstarting, I was underway again on my noble steed. Destination not really known - somewhere in the middle of nowhere. All I knew is that there was a feeling of optimism for yet another new experience in Costa Rica!
Whilst the garden was majestic and Gerson was incredibly friendly, optimism was admittedly cut short.
A bed in the middle of a living room. Outside shower and toilet. No glass windows. Limited wifi, signal, electricity and water (notice the order of those absurdities!). I have lived like this before when travelling so no problems so far, that was until bedtime and goodnight kisses from swarms of mosquitos. It took me until about 3am to realise that sleeping mummified under my bed sheet was the best option, but by then the hen house burst out into ear-assaulting singing. I answered with a song of my own: ‘Shut up' by the Black Eyed Peas. Even after multiple renditions of 'Get me Outta Here', they still didn’t get the message. I put my earphones in and eventually got to sleep, then an hour later I was up for work.
Strangely I was not met with the usual feeling after a rough nights sleep and your dreaded day-job looming ever closer. I was instead boosted by the smell of a full coffee container, an energizing Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) and being handed a machete. You should know that there are few more rewarding feelings than slashing your way through overgrown gorse bushes. Hearing the snap and crack of each strangling thorn bush, knowing that you are paving the way for a garden reminiscent of the Great British Bake Off. With Josh (Mexican) and Dorian (French) putting on Ed Sheeran as a background
motivator, we also took turns digging holes, planting seeds and exchanging language practice - all under Costa Ricas scorching sun. Despite the worst nights sleep imaginable, there was no better place to be than Valle Azul that day!
** I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the worst part of travelling is saying goodbye to friends with whom you've bonded. Fortunately though, Josh presented an offer to me I couldn’t refuse. To come and stay with him and Dorian in his families house in Mexico – which is exactly where I am writing this right now! **
The next day couldn't come soon enough! This time sleeping through relentless animal melodies as if they were lullabies from Mother (come to think of it, they probably sound the same!). I woke up refreshed and ready for whatever life would throw at me that morning! After a hard day of digging and moving boulders downstream, I was again in the familiar position of again being handed a machete. This time, however, for a different purpose. This blog is teeming with new experiences and it’s fair to say I am no longer shy about going out of my comfort zone. But being asked to remove a chickens head was the furthest out my comfort zone I have ever been. Forget bungy jumping, forget sky diving, even forget asking for directions in a Rio de Janeiro favela. I have never been so hesitant in my life!
I initially opted to watch from a safe distance where gushing blood couldn’t reach me. So Gerson started with the knife, but couldn’t bring himself to do it having known the chicken from a hatchling. The knife was passed to another volunteer, but the death stare from his girlfriend was too much for him to handle. So it was passed down to me as the only other option. It was no secret that I didn’t like the chicken for his early morning antics, but not to the point where it warrants a death sentence!
For once I was thankful for having a slow brain - I don’t comprehend what I’m about to do until I’m actually doing it! Holding the chickens head and pressing the knife down on its neck, carving with precision and force as if it was a roast turkey on Christmas day. That’s what I imagined, but in reality, it was much more horrifying. Feeling the panic and hearing the crunching was almost too much to handle, but I knew I had to continue until the head was clean off. It was off but it certainly wasn't clean. Slightly traumatized, I ran to the sink to wash off the blood as Gerson held the headless chicken at arm's length. Without going into any more graphic detail, I now fully understand 'that' infamous saying.
A strange day turned into an even more unusal night - the worst rainfall in 10 years according to Gerson! The heavens opened, the banks flooded and the house was literally swimming! All our hard work ruined ...
Help Gerson Become Fully Sustainable
I have tried to manage my high expectations since volunteering at Wildsun. I still wanted to be the best (of course!), but instead of running myself into the ground I decided to use some initiative...
Its fair to say that Gerson has long been an admirer of my travel blog, from way back when he first laid eyes on my ‘Workaway’ application and clicked the link for the first time. He later told me that he loved reading about all of my adventures, in particular, how positive my outlook is on the world (he must have skipped my Secret Garden experience!).
He wanted me to create something similar for him so he can share and educate people on his way of living.
He also shared that he has overcome a difficult period and has recently turned over a new leaf. He wants to zeroize his carbon footprint in a world we humans are stomping on, hence why he is on a journey to become fully sustainable. He explained that this has come with great sacrifice and a heavy monetary price. He has already done the first part, by uprooting his old life and firmly planting himself in the middle of nowhere. However, he will need a little bit of help to blossom into self-sustainability.
This is where I decided to go one step further in an attempt to make a difference for someone that deserves it. Instead of creating a blog, I decided to go the extra mile. I worked until all my brain fluids oozed out my ears by:
Creating a Go Get Funding account
Setting him up with PayPal (something that he has been trying to do for 2 years)
Sitting him down and asking what he needs to become self-sustainable
Researching the costs involved
Writing his bio
Reaching out to all of my closest friends and family to see if they could contribute.
So far we have mustered over $150 thanks to the generosity of friends and family. I dont think you realise how much even a small donation goes a long way in Costa Rica.
Here is the link to his profile and the total amount we have raised so far! Feel free to share, contribute or send a message of support:
** Here's a picture of the last volunteering crew, looking photgenic as ever at 5am!! **
Costa Rica? Completed it Mate
A picture of my maps.me Costa Rica. Forget Corona, this is the worst case of measles in recorded history.
I’m the type of person who has to do something or regret not doing it. For example, I still remember a game in French class in year 3 at school. Where the teacher shouts out a colour in French and it's a race between two people to touch something of that colour. I remember hesitating in nominating myself for that game, leaving me as one of the last people to play it. Unfortunately, by that time, the class was too rowdy and we had to stop and sit in silence for 5 minutes. I still haven’t played that game and I’m 20 years on now!!
This is why I had to leave the Isle of Man ASAP and travel the world for the third time. Almost three years without travelling, I had to cleanse my palate at the stale taste of boredom - even if it was during a worldwide pandemic! Do what you love with passion. It might be the last time you do it.
Reflection Time. Should I Have Left For Costa Rica?
In truth, my Costa Rica experience has not been hindered by Covid whatsoever, if anything it has made it even more unique and memorable. In 30 years when we're all looking back on it's negative impact, I will be sitting silently for once. Sorry Susan, you can complain about Bo Jo to someone else, I was too busy having a blast travelling!
Did I make the right decision leaving for Costa Rica? Without a doubt, the BEST decision I have EVER made. The memories I have created, the people I have met and the experiences I've shared have been nothing short of extraordinary. I will treasure that final Rice and Beans - and all the other special moments travelling - for the rest of my life. I am Tico till I die and truly devastated to leave the place I called home for 7 months, but overjoyed to be moving onto my next travelling destination!
I just want to live a life worth writing down. I'm sure a few months in Mexico is worthy of another blog post!
** Lesson Learned: $60 Tattoo above my moto burn **
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Pura Vida!
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